Yep that is how I got my start with an REA Rogers set with two Sierra coaches in 1991. Yes it was use under the Christmas tree at first and then semi retired till now. I rebuilt the loco a couple of weeks ago and she looks brand new and will once again take over Christmas Tree duty.

I know when I bought my set it was not cheap but I bit the bullet as it would be the way to get started without having to buy everything separate. Actually that is how I also got started years ago with HO with a Tyco starter set:D . I agree this a way to get folks going. Later RJD

Congratulations! It must be very gratifying to be totally in charge of an event as important to a hobby as the ECLSTS is to Large Scale (G Gauge/G Scale) model railroading. I hope that this show is more successful than any of the previous shows so people will recognize your long term contributions to the ECLSTS. Your past efforts to assure a good, substantial show have been rewarded.

Thanks Gordon for the kind words. As I have said before, the show has be fun for me to work. I look forward to each shows to see everyone again. No major changes in the shows and are taking a very serious look at some kind of a Fall show. Not sure yet what it will be but the interest seems to be there.
Again, thanks for the kind words!

You are correct! My mother always said "Time flies when you are having fun" and it is true with the show. I always think I have LOTS of time to get stuff done but time creeps up on me and I go into the panic mode after a short time.

I understand that Aristo will not be selling at the show.
However, it would be nice if some method was arrived at to sell an Aristo starter set using current Aristo prices and available parts. Looking on the Aristo web site I see:
ART21306C 0-4-0 SWITCHER UP W/CABOOSE $190
ART400xx GONDOLA 20' $ 36
CRE55400 PACK 1.8 AMP W/CHIP $ 48
ART30030 BRASS USA STR.TRACK 1' (12PCS) $ 79
CURVE TRACK MED 5' DIAM $133
$ 480
and would be $50 cheaper if 4' brass curve was available at same sale price as a 1' brass straight case. So a $ 430 starter set should be possible without even a discount other than what is now posted. That's a great price.